Interview with Kristina Goztola – New York Movie Awards

Kristina Goztola was born in the small town of Hungary, near the Austrian border. The “Mediterranen Beauty” speaks fluent English, French, Italian, Hungarian. She studied classical ballet and folk dance for seven years and graduated in High School of Music Arts in Hungary. She began her career as a musical actress in Hungary. After playing a few leading roles in musical performances, (Kiss me Kate! Stowaway, Miss Susy) at the age of 22 she continued her studies in London, in Los Angeles and in New York Film Academy to become Screen actress. She made her debut as a producer in the short movie Les Recherches Continuent 2018. In 2019 at Cannes Film Festival, as actress she represented the beautiful collection of the world famous Israeli fashion designer Michal Negrin.

When did you decide you wanted to be an actress?

When I was 6 years old my parents took me to the theatre. I remember seeing a musical performance and the actors, dancers, the beautiful costumes and the orchestra pit enchanted me. The theatrical world immediately captivated my soul. I went to dance classes, started learning to play the piano. I started my career as a theatrical actress than I was seduced by the world of film. As I learned screen acting in Los Angeles and London it was obvious for me to start my cinema career on international level.

How did your family react?

My parents helped me with everything, they supported my dreams. I’m very grateful to them for that. Nevertheless they feared for me.

Who’s your biggest fan?

I think my husband Peter Halmi who is a director. It is a wonderful gift from life that we can work together.

What brings you inspiration the most?

I like to observe people around me. I’m interested in psychology so I read books on this topic. When you want to dig really deep into shaping a role, it is very useful. It is also important to know what makes a good scenario.

Which actor or director would you like to work with?

With good directors…..with good actors, who think and work similarly to me.

Have you ever seen a film that was better than the book?

Vivien Leigh’s acting and beautiness fascinated me in the Gone With The Wind. Her play added a lot to Margaret Mitchell’s novel.

What’s the movie that taught you the most?

I admire the acting of Al Pacino, Meryl Streep, Dustin Hoffmann, Robin Williams.

What they represent to me is the cinema in capital letters. I’m talking about the professionalism, not about fame.

About your artistic career, have you ever had the desire to quit everything?

No, it never occured to me to think of giving it up. The other question is that I’m interested in a lot of things. Psychology, law, diplomacy, languages. I’ve always loved learning, like being among people. That’s probably why I’m open to the producer work as well.

On set what excites yuo the most?

As an actress I love the feverish preparation on set. When I being made up….it reassures me. If I’m also the producer of the film, well that’s a harder situation. I I have a big responsability, and I’m more worried about everyone else but myself.

And what scares you the most ?

I never scares on set because I’m always fully prepared. As an actress, I only take on a task that I like. It has already happened to me that I refused a role. As a producer, well the shooting preparations are essential. If everyone is professional around you, you have nothing to fear.

What’s your next project?

I play the leading role in a french-hungarian co-production „In the Shadow of White” directed by Peter Halmi. My character Lea wants to break into the Parisian fashion world but it is not as simple as she imagines. Moreover, a family secret is also revealed that she has to deal with. The shooting will be in Paris, Budapest and Rome. As a real cosmopolitan, I like working with an international team.

You can steal the career of an artist you really admire, who do you choose?

I wouldn’t steal anyone’s career or life. I want to make the best of my own life. But if I had to decide, I would choose Audrey Hepburn or Sophia Loren.

An actress life is made of constant struggle. As Marilyn Monroe said „Dreaming about being an actress is more exciting then being one.” It’s hard to get success but it’s even harder to keep it or surpass it.

For you Cinema is…

Films without Bounderies and a World without Strangers.

Do you think Black and white movies have a powerful impact?

I love Black and White Movies as it is a huge opportunity for artistic expression. Every little vibration on the actor’s face gets more emphasis and a real challenge from a lighting technical aspect.

Have you ever dreamed of winning an Oscar?

Everybody wants to make the most of his job. The awards and any kind of recognition are very important to us. The feeling of spiritual satisfaction that comes from completing a job successfully or audience feedback are essential for any artist.

Do you think you’re gonna win it?

As Lupita Nyong’O the Oscar-winning Kenyan actress says „ You have to allow the impossible to be possible”.